Mornington – Melbourne’s Perfect Partner
By Wendy Dunlop
Imagine a holiday that combines a vibrant cosmopolitan city with an idyllic peninsula right on its doorstep. Many of us sample the delights of Melbourne, revelling in its shopping, galleries, events and shows, but when the city bustle palls or the conference is over, make your way to Mornington and discover the perfect partnership.
The Mornington Peninsula stretches down the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay and beside its golden sandy beaches, you’ll find relaxation with a capital ‘R’ and a smorgasbord of things to enjoy historically, scenically, gastronomically, adventurously or slothfully!
Among the picturesque little towns and settlements that dot the peninsula, Mt Eliza is a chic mix of old and new, Sorrento is elegant and historic, while Mornington is a boutique seaside village that has been charming visitors for over a century. Specialty shops beg you to browse, market stalls invite you to buy from the locals and a raft of restaurants and cafes provide gourmet delicacies, local wines and fresh produce to tempt your taste buds.
When the beach beckons it’s just at the end of Mornington’s Main Street. Crescent shaped bays are bisected by a fishing jetty where the local catch finds its way to a succulent menu at The Rocks restaurant and a row of Victoria’s quaint iconic bathing sheds line up in vibrant colours along the sand.
The waterfront Esplanade is dominated by the Royal Hotel, a colonial masterpiece dating from 1857. Graced with visits by Prince Alfred in 1876 and the Prince of Wales in 1920, hence its name, its recent restoration offers accommodation “fit for royalty” and a dining destination of genuine nostalgia.
Sorrento was the site of the first settlement in Victoria in 1803 and among the golden glow of limestone buildings, over 30 heritage properties are home to bespoke boutiques, hotels and restaurants. From here there are nature trails to walk, art trails to view and a wine trail of over 50 cellar doors to sample the region’s notable Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Among the best known are Red Hill Estate, Paringa, Willow Creek and the quirkily named Ten Minutes By Tractor.
Ferries operate across the narrow neck of the bay to historic Queenscliff and the start of the Great Ocean Road or you can swim with seals, dive with dolphins, explore underwater wrecks, sail, kayak or take your chances surfing along the wilder eastern beaches.
But one thing you can’t miss is an indulgent soak at the Peninsula Hot Springs Spa where natural warm waters flow into a series of pools amid exquisitely landscaped bush and rock gardens. Twenty different globally inspired bathing experiences include a steam bath, sauna, mineral shower, reflexology walk, cave pool, plunge pool and hilltop tub with 360 degree panoramic views.
A menu of spa treatments offer balm for the body and calm for the soul. Try an Aboriginal kodo or ancient healing stone experience at the Spa Dreaming Centre or a massage to soothe and smooth. Revitalised and refreshed, with on site dining and tranquil accommodation you can day trip or stay over – possibly forever!
Fast Facts:
Mornington is 90 minutes travel time from downtown Melbourne by road, train or bus. First established as Cobb and Co coach stop between Melbourne and Sorrento, Mornington developed as a popular holiday destination and its micro climate saw market gardens and vineyards flourish.
